Labour's attempt to regulate the privatised utilities

Sir: Tony Blair's condemnation of the "unseemly racket" in the privatised utilities is to be welcomed, although Labour's proposed remedies such as enhanced regulation and a consumer dividend do not go far enough.

A pledge to bring gas, water and electricity back into public ownership coupled with a firm commitment to end the spivvish managerialism that has blighted so many of our schools, universities, hospitals and other public services would do much to convince the electorate that it is time for Labour.